New Zealand Glacier & Fiords
Itinerary
- Day 1
This morning board the TranzAlpine Train, New Zealand’s premier rail journey across the Canterbury Plains and up the gorges of the Waimakariri River, flanked by snowcapped mountains to Arthur’s Pass. After exiting the Otira Tunnel and the forests of the West Coast reach Greymouth and board your coach to the West Coast Glaciers. Tonight stay at Franz Josef Village.
- Day 2
Today is free for you to relax and enjoy the scenery or participate in the many activities available in this glacial wonderland. In Glacier Country, it takes a while to make a West Coast ice cube - about 10,000 years or so. The Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers are among the most accessible glaciers in the world and Glacier Country offers a wealth of adventure activities. Take a guided glacier hike, ride a quad bike, fly in a helicopter or sightseeing plane or even do a tandem sky dive.
- Day 3
Travel south past tranquil lakes, across the Haast River and climb the Haast Pass past towering mountains with cascading waterfalls. Leave the West Coast Rain Forest for arid Central Otago. Journey past the shores of Lake Wanaka to the Kawarau Gorge. Passing Lake Hayes arrive in Queenstown.
- Day 4
Board the coach, specially built for Milford Sound, and head to Te Anau for a morning tea stop. Departing Te Anau travel to the magnificence of Milford Sound. Cruise Milford Sound and experience up close the geographical uniqueness of 5000ft sheer rock faces rising from the sea and the numerous waterfalls and marine life. Departing Milford Sound, the coach retraces its journey back to Queenstown.
- Day 5
Enjoy a free day to explore this alpine resort. We recommend the SkyLine Gondola; sit back and relax as you’re taken 450 metres above Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu to the top of Bob’s Peak, where you’ll enjoy the best views in the region unfolding before your eyes. You get to experience a spectacular 220 degree panorama with breath-taking views of Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, Walter and Cecil Peak and, of course, Queenstown. When you get to the top, choose your own pace from the host of activities on offer (not included). Maybe you’ll have a relaxing evening with some of the best of New Zealand and international cuisine, or head back to the city centre to explore.
- Day 6
Depart Queenstown via the Kawerau Gorge and traverse the Lindis Pass before reaching the MacKenzie Country, framed by the snowcapped Southern Alps. Stay tonight at Tekapo (value & standard) or at the foot of Mount Cook (superior).
- Day 7
A free morning to explore more. See the remarkable turquoise coloured Lake Tekapo surrounded by the mountainous drama of the Southern Alps. On the shores on the lake you’ll see the beautiful Church of the Good Shepherd, one of New Zealand’s most popular photo spots. At lunchtime, depart and travel north over Burkes Pass before descending on to the Canterbury Plains. Hugging the foothills of the Southern Alps, cross the snow-fed Rakaia River. Arrive in Christchurch this evening, where your tour ends.
